Heavy Haul Permit Requirements

Houston, Texas-based entrepreneur Stephen Patrick Day divides his time between several endeavors. He not only serves as a partner at Petro Wire & Steel, Ltd., but he is also the president and CEO of Logistics Group International (LGI). At Logistics Group International, Stephen Day and his colleagues provide heavy haul trucking services to clients.

Heavy haul trucking refers to hauling loads that exceed 80,000 pounds of gross weight. These loads cannot be reduced and include cargo that is either wide, tall, or heavier than standard trailer dimensions or capacities. All of this type of cargo requires permits for transport. The requirements and limits for permitting vary by state and are subject to change as state legislation changes.

Generally, heavy haul permits list the load description, dimensions, carrier applying for the permit, along with the route that drivers are required to take. Without these permits, drivers cannot take oversize loads through the state borders. Such permits can be obtained in several ways, either from the state directly or at the state’s website or through a permit service. Each state does have its own requirements for permit costs that carriers must pay.

In addition to these permits, some permitted shipments may be subject to having an escort depending on state rules. Civilian escorts, private companies that lead oversize loads, are suitable in some areas, but some require police escorts instead. If the required route for the load goes past low structures, states also require a pilot car or pole car to ensure the load fits under low structures.